13: Edited by James Howe, reviewed by Isabel F.

When kids think of something to read, they usually think of a novel. Try something new and read a book of short stories. This is a compilation of “13 stories that capture the agony and ecstasy of being thirteen”. I liked most of the stories, but a few were either a bit overdone or I couldn’t really relate to the premise. It’s a nice way to learn about experiences that you wouldn’t otherwise have, or that you might have someday. If I were to pick it up again I would pick out the parts I wanted to read instead of reading the entire book from front to back. I recommend this book for some realistic and well-written short stories from an array of perspectives.

Ashes of Roses by Mary Jane Auch: Reviewed by James R.

When Margaret Rose Nolan gets on board the ship to America from Ireland, she never expected what she got. In this well-written historical fiction by Mary Jane Auch, Rose has all her family, except her little sister Maureen, leave her in America and go back to Ireland to live their lives there. Rose and Maureen, determined to make a living, rent a small room. Rose gets a job at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory (after failing a sweatshop job making paper flowers) to make her living. Rose is living quite happily, drinking tea, buying bread, and making friends. However, one day everything changes for Rose, Maureen and many others as well. When a horrible fire takes over the Triangle Shirtwaist factory (where Maureen has been recently employed) Rose isn't sure if her life will ever be the same, or if she will even be alive.